Tom Sandoval Seeks Redemption on America’s Got Talent With Passionate Band Performance

Tom Sandoval, known for his role on Vanderpump Rules, stepped onto the America’s Got Talent (AGT) stage seeking a second chance at public approval. During the June 24 episode, he auditioned alongside his band, Tom Sandoval and the Most Extras.

The reality star acknowledged the intense fallout from his infamous 2023 cheating scandal, which garnered widespread media attention and criticism. Labelled as the “Most Hated Man in America,” Sandoval expressed hopes that his musical performance would help shift the narrative and highlight a different side of him — that of a passionate performer rather than a reality TV villain.

Scandal, Regret And Redemption As Sandoval Shares His Journey Before Taking Stage

In a pre-performance interview, Sandoval candidly discussed the affair that rocked the Vanderpump Rules cast and left his reputation in tatters. He admitted to letting many people down, particularly his longtime girlfriend Ariana Madix, after being caught in a relationship with their friend and co-star Raquel Leviss.

The scandal, dubbed “Scandoval,” consumed headlines and led to immense personal backlash. Sandoval described the period following the scandal as one of isolation and depression, crediting his band with helping him find purpose again.

On stage, Sandoval introduced himself and briefly addressed his notoriety, acknowledging that many would recognize him from reality TV. He explained that the scandal led him to a dark place, and music was his outlet during that time.

With his fellow bandmates and supporters — including Tom Schwartz and girlfriend Victoria Lee Robinson — watching from the audience, Sandoval said his dream was to turn the group into a globe-trotting, high-energy party band. His sincerity and vulnerability made an impression, even as judges quietly discussed the controversy behind the scenes.

Judges Look Past Scandal as Sandoval’s Energetic Performance Wins Over the Audience

Despite a humorous exchange among the judges — including Sofia Vergara’s curiosity about the scandal and Mel B’s blunt remark, “No wonder nobody likes him” — Sandoval and his band delivered a lively cover of A-ha’s “Take on Me.” The performance, while not vocally flawless, was well-received overall.

Mel B appreciated the joyful energy, Sofia praised the stage presence, and Howie Mandel called Sandoval a “showman.” Although Simon Cowell critiqued the vocals, he acknowledged Sandoval’s authenticity and voted yes along with the rest of the panel, sending the band to the next round.

Backstage, a visibly emotional Sandoval reflected on the moment with host Terry Crews, expressing gratitude that the audience was cheering them on. Mel B reinforced that she didn’t care about the scandal, focusing instead on the band’s positive vibes.

For Sandoval, the AGT audition was more than just a musical opportunity — it was a moment of personal vindication and a step toward rebuilding his public image. Whether or not his band wins the competition, his AGT debut marked a turning point in how he hopes to be seen moving forward.